At the time of issuance of the card, a list of hospitals will be provided to the beneficiaries. In case of need to go to hospital, beneficiary will have to go to one of these hospitals or such hospitals as are added to the list of empanelled hospitals subsequently.

How will the beneficiary know which hospitals they can go for treatment under RSBY?

The list of the hospitals will be provided at the time of the card issuance. Information relating to these and other hospitals can be obtained by calling the toll free helpline number provided by the insurer.

Pre-hospitalisation expenses are such expenses as are incurred by the hospitals before taking a view with regards to hospitalization. Expenditure incurred by the beneficiary on tests/ medicines which lead to hospitalization are also covered for reimbursement subject to production of proof. The hospital will also provide medicines and other assistance which are needed for patient till five days after discharge from the hospital.

A package charge means that all the expenses related to the treatment like medicine, tests, bed charges, other materials, food etc. will be part of package and hospital will not charge anything from the patient for these.

What happens if the disease is not in the package rate? How long the
beneficiary will have to wait for that?

If the disease is not in the package rate, the nodal person will take consent from the insurance company before blocking the amount. This can take from 1-2 hours to one day depending on the type of disease.

What will happen if the smart card machine is not working in the hospital?

It will be the responsibility of the hospital and the insurance company to provide for alternative arrangements if the smart card machine is not working. The beneficiary will not be denied treatment in any case if the identity of the beneficiary is established.